Frequently Asked Questions

We often get asked the same questions many individuals have about adoption. We partnered up with the Adults Adopting Special Program (AASK) who facilitates the adoptions to answer some of the most asked questions.

Do I need to be married to adopt?

Individuals and couples may make an application to adopt. Verification of birth, marriage and divorce are required. By policy, couples must have a minimum of two year’s stability in their relationship. State law prohibits married individuals to adopt without their spouse joining in the adoption,except under specific circumstances. In the case of individuals who cohabitate with a partner, their relationship must be stable and compatible for a minimum of two years. One individual will become the identified prospective adoptive parent, but both individuals must participate in the entire adoption assessment and preparation process.

How old do I have to be to adopt?

Age and physical ability are considered in determining the appropriateness of a particular child to be placed in your home. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and there is not a maximum age.

Do I have to be a homeowner?

Home ownership is not required; however, housing should be adequate to meet both the physical and emotional needs of a child or children placed for adoption. Housing must meet basic standards of cleanliness, health, and safety. AASK can place children only in areas where resource services are readily available and space in the home adequately meets the needs of the child.

I've sent an inquiry email on a child. Now what?

Potential Applicants will be invited to an Inquiry Meeting during which they will be informed of the Adults Adopting Special Kids (AASK) program policies and practices and will be provided an opportunity to document their interest in pursing an adoption with the program.

The next step is the group preparation and assessment process.This is the process to prepare applicants for the adoption of children with special needs, including those applicants adopting foster children or relatives in their care. Foster/Adopt PRIDE (Parents Resource for Information, Development and Education) training is required for all adoptive applicants.

Adoption Assessments are applicable for the type of adoption specified in the recommendations and may be valid for up to two years. Assessment updates are complete for those families who have not yet adopted and every two years. Updated paperwork and background checks will be required. At any point during the-two year time period between updates, should the family’s situation significantly change or the program receive information contrary to known information, the AASK program may update the family’s adoption assessment to reflect their current situation and either amend or reaffirm program recommendations.